MTH 060 Beginning Algebra

Topics include a selective review of arithmetic, tables and graphs, signed numbers, problem solving, linear equations, linear inequalities, ratio and proportion, and unit analysis. This course prepares students for MTH 065 - Elementary Algebra. MTH 060 and MTH 065 provide a two-term sequence preparatory for MTH 095 - Intermediate Algebra .

Credits

Prerequisite

MTH 020 with a C- or better within the past two years OR equivalent placement via the math placement process

Course Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
1. Maintain, use, and expand skills and concepts learned in previous mathematics courses
a. Perform operations with fractions and decimals
b. Use unit analysis to convert units and solve problems
2. Perform addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division of rational numbers
3. Use and apply the concepts and language of algebraic expressions
a. Use variables to construct algebraic expressions
b. Evaluate algebraic expressions and simplify expressions using order of operations
c. Simplify algebraic expressions by removing parentheses and combining like terms
4. Solve linear equations and inequalities
a. Solve linear equations and formulas algebraically
b. Solve linear inequalities and graph their solutions on a number line
5. Use algebra to solve application problems
a. Translate verbal models into algebraic expressions and/or equations. Solve problems
b. Solve problems using ratios and proportions
c. Solve problems involving similar triangles
d. Solve geometry problems involving perimeter, area, and volume
6. Interpret information represented numerically and graphically, and recognize linear relationships represented verbally, numerically, graphically, and algebraically
a. Read and interpret information given in a table or graph
b. Locate points in a rectangular coordinate system and represent equations in two variables graphically
c. Identify the horizontal and vertical intercepts of the graph of an equation and interpret them in terms of an application
d. Identify the slope of a line and interpret it in terms of an application
e. Use the slope-intercept form of the equation of a line
f. Use the point-slope form of the equation of a line
g. Recognize the relationship between the slopes of two lines that are parallel or perpendicular
7. Make appropriate and efficient use of a scientific calculator (Note: Students will be expected to demonstrate achievement of some objectives without the use of a calculator)